The components of a stereo audio system can be confusing for novices who have just begun their journey of putting together a home theatre sound system. Many of our readers have often admitted that they find it difficult to understand certain concepts as many manufacturers strictly focus on the technicalities or jargons.

When custom designing your home theatre system in India, it important to know the differences between receivers and amplifiers and what role they play in a quite. With half information, many users end up buying gear that doesn't suit their requirement or leaves them only partially satisfied. After all, no one likes the sight of unused equipment especially after you have paid a huge sum of money to buy them. Ooberpad India's blog & guide gives you a quick primer and introduction to key components of audio systems so you can better understand the role each one plays in your home entertainment system.

A receiver is a combination of three components: an amplifier, a control centre and an AM/FM tuner. An AV receiver is the centre or the heart of the system where all the audio and video components and the speakers will be connected and controlled. Broadly, a receiver amplifies the sound, receives AM/FM stations, and lets you select a source for listening or viewing (CD, DVD, Bluray, Tape, and iPod etc.). It also lets you adjust the tonal quality and other listening preferences. Receivers come largely in two variants, stereo and multichannel home theatre receivers. Your decision to choose one depends on your application. For example, if you only listen to music or have a huge vinyl collection, a stereo amplifier should suffice. However, if you are a movie buff like us, a multi channel AV receiver should do the trick. 

Pro Tip: An AVR from brands such as Anthem, Denon, Marantz, Yamaha, allow you to enjoy both music and movies (surround sound).

An integrated amp is very much like a receiver. Quite often without the AM/FM tuner. A basic integrated amplifier combines a two-channel or multichannel amp with a pre-amplifier for selecting audio components and for basic tone controls. Pre-amplifier also known as a control amps so don't be confused. Many audio enthusiasts and audiophiles prefer separate components. This is because they provide the best audio performance as each component is optimized for a specific function. In addition, because they are separate components, there is less possibility of interference between the pre-amp and the higher current stages of a power amp.

A pre-amplifier is also known as a control amplifier because it’s where all components are connected and controlled. A pre-amp provides a small amount of amplification, only enough to send the signal to the power amplifier, which amplifies the signal enough to power speakers. 

A power amplifier provides the electrical current to drive loudspeakers and they are available in two-channel or several multichannel configurations. Power amps are the last component in the audio signal chain. Hence, they should be matched with the capabilities of the speakers. A quick glance at the technical specification of the amplifier and the speaker should help you with this.

If you are still confused, feel free to get in touch with the knowledgeable and helpful Ooberpad team. We will answer your queries and help you design your dream home theatre in India, that too well within your budget.